VCK president Thol Thirumavalavan has launched a strong criticism against the Madras High Court collegium, alleging complete exclusion of advocates from the Adi Dravidar community in its recent recommendations for judge appointments.
Allegations of Systematic Exclusion
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday, the prominent Dalit leader revealed that not a single advocate from the Adi Dravidar community found place in the list of names recommended for posting as judge. Thirumavalavan described this omission as a grave injustice that is both shocking and unacceptable in a democratic society.
The VCK chief expressed deep concern over what he termed as a deeply imbalanced selection pattern that systematically sidelines marginalized communities. He emphasized that Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes continue to be severely underrepresented in the judiciary, perpetuating historical inequalities.
Political Bias and Saffronization Concerns
Thirumavalavan went further to allege that the proposed list of appointees for judges in the High Court is predominantly filled with advocates backed by the BJP-RSS combine. This pattern, he warned, indicates a dangerous trend moving toward the saffronization of the judiciary.
The current selection process, according to the VCK leader, stands fundamentally opposed to the principles of social justice and deserves strong condemnation. He expressed apprehension that such exclusionary practices could undermine the credibility and diversity of the judicial system.
Call for Immediate Rectification
Thirumavalavan has urgently appealed to the Collegium to rectify the glaring imbalance in their selection process. He demanded that the collegium reconsider its recommendations and ensure adequate representation of Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes in the judiciary.
The VCK president stressed that inclusive representation is not merely about numbers but about ensuring that the judiciary reflects the social diversity of the society it serves. He argued that diverse perspectives on the bench are essential for delivering truly impartial justice.
This controversy emerges at a time when discussions about representation in constitutional bodies have gained significant traction across India. The allegations raise important questions about the transparency and inclusivity of judicial appointment processes in the country.